There’s plenty to do during your stay in Taos, but if you want to experience more of New Mexico, take a day trip to learn more about the Land of Enchantment. We’ve made planning your getaway easier with these must-take day trips from Taos.
Take the High Road to Santa Fe
105 miles
2.5 hours with no stops
Explore the picturesque route to Santa Fe with one of the most popular day trips from Taos. The drive itself takes only a few hours, but the magic is in the journey, traveling through the small villages, visiting the art galleries, and stopping at the many scenic areas for pictures of one-of-a-kind views. Locals recommend taking the high road to Santa Fe from Taos for the best sightseeing experience. Watch rocky mesas turn into green alpine forests as you travel the curvy road from mountaintop to valley.
Visit the village of Chimayo, about an hour out from Taos. While there, tour the historic catholic pilgrimage destination, Santuario de Chimayo. Enter the walled landscaped courtyard and admire the intricate design and detailed doors of the shrines.
As you enter the sanctuary, there’s more art and history to take in. When you finish, drop in for lunch at Rancho de Chimayo for a taste of their famous red chilé. Finish up the drive to Santa Fe and find plenty of local shops for souvenirs and artisan goods, eateries, museums, and more to do before your return to Taos.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
119 Miles
2 Hours with no stops
Get an early start and take the two-hour journey to Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. Enjoy the tree-lined drive on US-285 and at your turn onto the SH-150 stop in the small town of Alamosa. Make your first destination the Campus Café for a cup of coffee and oversized cinnamon roll to start the day.
After breakfast, pick up your sandboard or sand sled rental from Kristi Mountain Sports. Get prepared for the rest of the day by grabbing some snacks and water. Hop in the car for a short 20-minute ride on SH-150 to the parking lot for the park. Bring your gear and get ready for an exciting day! Begin with a hike up the dunes, then get your shred on and take the sandy slopes for a ride. The whole family will love playing in the sand!
Cimarron Canyon State Park
60 Miles
1.5 Hours with no stops
Spend a day enjoying nature at Cimarron Canyon State Park. Take the long leg of the Enchanted Circle scenic byway to get there. The added drive time is worth it as you take in the green alpines and mountain views of New Mexico’s old mining country.
There’s plenty of fun to be had once you reach the park. Bring your pole and see what’s biting in the Cimarron River or one of the creeks. Get moving with a hike on the Clear Creek trail and follow the stream through the forested canyon uncovering scenic views and hidden waterfalls. With bears, elk, deer, and more making their home in the parklands, be on the lookout for wildlife foraging nearby.
Hotels in the Taos Plaza
Make your home base for exploring New Mexico at the Hotel La Fonda in Taos. Located in the heart of the Taos plaza, we are in the center of it all! After one of these adventure-filled day trips from Taos, relax in one of our comfortable rooms. Our accommodations are detailed with charming Southwest décor and well-appointed furnishings for an authentic New Mexico experience during your Taos stay.
